Since the electromagnetic spectrum is a limited resource, the use of its radio frequency bands is regulated by governments in most countries, in a process known as frequency allocation or spectrum allocation. Since radio propagation and RF technology markets do not stop at national boundaries, there are strong technical and economic incentives for governments to adopt harmonised spectrum allocation standards.
A number of forums and standards bodies work on standards for frequency allocation, including:
High-demand sections of the electromagnetic spectrum may sometimes be allocated through auctions.
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